Front Royal is for Wine Lovers

Photo Credit: Virginia Tourism Corporation

There’s something about sipping on a glass of wine that brings a sense of relaxation and refinement  . . . no matter where you are! Now imagine that glass of wine and but add the following ingredients: mountain vistas, orderly lines of rustic grapevines, the warm breezes of summer, a picnic table in the shade. Have you just imagined a wine lover’s paradise? You’ve imagined Front Royal, Virginia!

If you’re a lover of Virginia wines, head to the Front Royal area! You’ll find a great selection of stunning rural wineries, all within ninety minutes of the Washington D.C. area. And don’t forget to try out Front Royal’s meaderies if you want to mix it up with a little honey wine. Read on to plan your wine tasting trip to Front Royal today! If Virginia is for Lovers, then Front Royal is for Wine Lovers!

Photo Credit: Virginia Tourism Corporation

​Our Featured Front Royal Wineries
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It’s the high elevations and fast-draining mountain soils of the Front Royal area that make it ideally suited for growing grapes . . . and producing wine. With these outstanding conditions, it’s no surprise that the Front Royal area is the home of many wonderful wineries. There’s plenty of potential for long afternoons of wine-sipping relaxation. For today’s post, though, we’re narrowing it down to two recommendations for your Front Royal winery trip.

Chester Gap Cellars

First up is Chester Gap Cellars, recently featured on ABC 7’s Road Trippin’ series. Just a ten minute drive from downtown Front Royal, the gorgeous mountain views of this rural vineyard/winery could hardly be more convenient. Visit to enjoy the high quality wines that you’ll only find in a small-scale enterprise. You can complement your wine with a purchase from their selection of meats, cheeses, crackers, and artisan breads. Outside food is welcome, so feel free to pack your own picnic too.
 

Glen Manor Vineyards

For a winery with an irreplaceable historical feel, check out Glen Manor Vineyards. This officially designated “century farm,” has been in the same family for five generations and over 100 years. Here, you can experience a glass of fine Virginia wine on a historic estate that includes over 200 acres of pastures and woodlands. You won’t find food available here, but pack your own picnic hamper, and you can match up the wine with your favorite complementary foods. Visits are by reservation only, so contact the winery in advance to avoid disappointment.
 

Front Royal’s Mead – Because Honey Wine is Wine Too

Saga Meadery

​If you’re planning a wine-tasting trip to Front Royal, and want to change things up a bit, consider making at least one visit to a Front Royal meadery. The most simple definition of mead is “honey wine,” and this ancient form of wine has been making a big comeback in recent years. With two different meaderies right in town, Front Royal is a great place to enjoy mead as well as wine! Visit Honey and Hops Brew Works or Saga Meadery to discover this unique and delicious beverage. You may well find yourself adding “honey wine” to your list of favorites. 

Honey and Hops Brew Works

Lodging to Pair with a Front Royal Wine
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If you want to make a weekend (or more!) of your Front Royal winery ramble, you’ll easily find comfortable accommodation in our welcoming small town. If you’re looking for a traditional hotel experience, there’s a wide choice of chain hotels such as Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, or Townplace Suites. Or if you’re coming with a larger group, consider booking a house where you can all stay together. Franklin Manor is a vacation cabin near Front Royal that offers the perfect combination of luxury, rustic charm, and convenient proximity to town. It’s a great choice for a group getaway. 
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Franklin Manor - Front Royal, VA

Don’t wait to discover the wineries of the Front Royal area! You’ll find they pair perfectly with mountain views, Virginia charm, and the unmatched charm of a small mountain town. Begin your journey to Shenandoah Valley's Wine Trail here!